The 2025/26 biathlon season is set to ignite this weekend with the opening World Cup races in Östersund, Sweden, and the Slovak national team is geared up for the challenge. While the official start is just days away, key athletes are sharing their perspectives on readiness, goals, and the mental game required to excel on the international stage.
For Paulína Bátovská Fialková, a seasoned competitor, the focus is on refining her technique and building confidence. I firmly believe that I will be able to stabilize, especially the lay-up, and the stand-up will also be added to it,
she stated, highlighting her commitment to improving her shooting accuracy. She acknowledges the unique pressures of race day,emphasizing the critical role of concentration. To sharpen this mental edge, Fialková has incorporated specialized eye exercises, a strategy developed in consultation with Danka Barteková. I will bet on safety when shooting and I believe that it will be at least one shot better than last year,
she added, expressing a pragmatic yet optimistic outlook. Her hopes extend to maintaining peak physical condition, I hope that my health will last and I will also be in running shape.
VIDEO: Bátovská Fialková Discusses Her Olympic Aspirations
While the current Slovak women’s biathlon unit tends to be reserved about setting concrete goals before the Olympic season, Fialková offered a glimpse into her aspirations. I believe that this season will be the most prosperous of the last four,
she revealed. When pressed about specific targets,she remained cautiously enterprising. I would like to say that my goal is to win a medal. Though,many things go into it. When the season starts, I’ll see what I’m capable of and how well I’m prepared. only then can I more realistically dream of a medal goal.
This measured approach reflects the unpredictable nature of biathlon, where a single missed shot can dramatically alter race outcomes, much like a crucial penalty in hockey or a missed field goal in American football can swing momentum.
On the men’s side, the spotlight shines brightest on Jakub Borguľa. He demonstrated extraordinary form in the nomination race in Obertilliach,Austria,posting the best running time among the Slovak representatives. However, Borguľa recognizes that shooting remains an area for betterment. I trained more than last year. I have a good feeling about the preparation. I feel strong in running, but I have reserves in shooting,
he admitted. He downplays the notion of being the sole leader of the men’s team, acknowledging the strong performances of his teammates. I don’t feel in the position of the male leader in the Slovak team, because the other guys are also doing well in terms of indicators. It will be an even race between us, but we all want to finish higher than last year.
the pressure of perhaps qualifying for the Winter Olympics is palpable for the 21-year-old. I’m a little stressed as I want to get to the winter Olympics, but I believe in myself.I have the necessary strength and I’m already looking forward to the fights on the track,
Borguľa concluded, his anticipation for the upcoming competitions evident.
The Östersund World Cup will feature a strong Slovak contingent, with Paulína Bátovská Fialková, Ema kapustová, Anastasia Kuzminová, and Zuzana Remeňová representing the women, and Jakub borguľa leading the charge for the men.
